CRICKET
GCL
BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
JUNIOR cricketers were afforded a late treat before school holidays wrapped up, with the Sophie Molineux Cup once again offering a two-day extravaganza for girls cricket.
Yinnar Recreation Reserve welcomed all four of Gippsland Cricket’s leagues from Monday, January 19 to Tuesday, January 20 featuring the best female juniors across the region.
On their technical home ground, Cricket Latrobe Valley road an unbeaten round robin to defeat Sale-Maffra Cricket Association in a rematch of last year’s final.
After winning their prior matches by an average of 50 runs, Cricket Latrobe Valley made up for the previous year’s woes by dispatching Sale-Maffra on the Yinnar turf.
Despite Cricket Latrobe Valley’s success leading into the final, Sale-Maffra elected to bowl after winning the toss.
Skipper Gracie Sanders quickly got to work for Cricket Latrobe Valley, making 29 not out, with three boundaries and an additional six.
Anna Shine then arrived and immediately piled on runs in bulk.
Totalling five balls that flew over the cones on the full, Shine made a game-high 42 not out.
Cricket Latrobe Valley provided little doubt that they’d be able to hold off their opponent, putting up an exceptional bowling effort to protect their 128-run target.
Aaliyah Hodson nailed two early wickets, while Lily Blackshaw and Lilly Freeman etched important dismissals late.
Shine was recognised for her efforts with the player of the match medal, while team captain Sanders was awarded Cricket Latrobe Valley’s Spirit of Cricket medal.
Latrobe Valley cricketing legend Wayne Mills presented coach Jay van der Stoep and the girls with the Sophie Molineux Cup and shield.
The Sophie Molineux Cup is named after the Bairnsdale resident and current leading Australian women’s cricketer.
